feathering

noun

feath·​er·​ing ˈfet͟h-riŋ How to pronounce feathering (audio)
ˈfe-t͟hər-iŋ
1
: a covering of feathers : plumage
2
: a fringe of hair (as on the legs of a dog) see dog illustration

Examples of feathering in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Members would wear white caps and disguises while doling out their vigilante justice, which included tar and feathering, whipping, arson and drowning. Jessie Balmert, The Enquirer, 15 May 2024 What to know about Western screech-owls Western screech-owls are small with round yellow eyes and brown and white feathering that helps camouflage them in trees, according to the California Living Museum. Helena Wegner, Sacramento Bee, 28 Mar. 2024 The bodice was a mock neck halter fit while the hem was flared with even more feathering added to it. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 20 Feb. 2024 The powerful level of pigmentation provided healthy doses of color in one swipe without feathering, even on 70-plus-year-old skin. Alyssa Brascia, Peoplemag, 16 Jan. 2024 Furthermore, the feathering motion is mainly how penguins produce such powerful forward propulsion in the water. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 6 July 2023 Optimal amplitude while feathering generated the largest thrust. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 6 July 2023 However, Republicans run the risk of achieving precisely the opposite goal of politically tarring, feathering, and trying to remove the president. Max Thornberry, Washington Examiner, 28 Dec. 2023 Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner A cult-favorite liquid eyeliner that stays in place without smudging, feathering, or running. NYX Butter Gloss A buttery soft lip gloss that imparts a sheer-to-medium coverage, high-shine pigment. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 5 Oct. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'feathering.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1721, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of feathering was in 1721

Dictionary Entries Near feathering

Cite this Entry

“Feathering.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feathering. Accessed 1 Jun. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!